Friday, May 11, 2012

Getting Sandal Ready @ The Mandarin Oriental Spa

The last time I was in New York City, I asked my friend Ashley which spa she thought was the BEST in the city. Her answer, hands-down - The Spa inside The Mandarin Oriental Hotel located on the 39th floor of the Time Warner Centre. The spa invited me to experience the 80-minute Holistic Hot Stone Pedicure ($140) which is a splurge but includes access to all the facilities. It was a great way to unwind after a long day of shopping and sightseeing.

The Heating Experience was included with my visit and I spent some time after my pedicure relaxing my sore back muscles in the Oxygenated Vitality Pool (above).

My treatment began with a gentle exfoliation followed by a massage using hot stones that were rubbed all over my feet and legs to help release any tension. I stepped into a pair of warm paraffin wax booties to soften my skin, while I relaxed and melted away. Once all the wax was removed, I had a fun bright coral polish applied to my toes to get me fully ready for sandal season.

After rinsing off in the Three-Setting Shower (rainfall, fog mist and full body), I hit the Amethyst Crystal Steam Room to get myself centered again. The steam is released via a very cool vase in the centre of the room and isn't noisy at all. This was the pefect place to breathe deeply and meditate. I kept my energy levels up by sipping on lots of cold water, applying iced towels to my face and snacking on nuts and dried fruit courtesy of the spa.

I took some time to unwind in the Relaxation Room which overlooks the Upper West Side and a corner of Central Park. I was mainly sipping on herbal tea and reading magazines, but could easily have taken a post-spa nap here. Spa brain was oncoming.

Calming fountain (above). Be prepared to spend about an hour before or after your treatment to allow yourself enough time to enjoy all the facilities. Bring your bathing suit along if you wish. The spa provides slippers, robe and a locker.

I also recommend taking a cab home to keep the aura of spa bliss going. I ended up sleeping like a baby that night. It was the perfect end to my trip and I was extra relaxed on the plane ride back to Toronto.